Midwestern Women Are Giving These Fall Trends a Hard Pass

Our resident southern editor has been reporting on the trends women of the South are skipping this fall, and as someone who has extended family in the Midwest, I thought we’d also give the Central Time Zone a little love too. To find out the trends they are and aren’t into this season, I took to my IG story and polled all the stylish Midwesterners in my audience. Their responses weren’t 100% uniform, as can be expected when canvassing an area that crosses thousands of miles, but there were some clear wins and equally hearty “hell nos.” One interesting factor that came into play: When choosing Midwestern clothing styles, women from Wichita to Chicago have to consider things other locales do not (spoiler alert: The reality of harsh winters are definitely taken into account). Keep reading to see how this played out among their choices, as well as the wear-anywhere trends they’re loving and hating.

“Wearing shearling started for functionality and luxury, and even though I err on the side of maximalism, I still constantly return to functionality, especially when it feels luxe.” — Kinsley from Ohio

“Shearling is chic, cozy, and timeless.” — Patricia from Illinois

“Shearling is a classic and great for cold Midwest winters.” — Anonymous from Illinois

“I’m very on board with any trend that allows me to wear blanket-like fabric outside the house.” — Morgan from Wisconsin

“Plaid tailoring is sophisticated and something I could confidently wear to both work, happy hour, and a work dinner.” — Mackenzie from Kansas

“I love a modern twist on classic silhouettes. They’re so flattering!” — Morgan from Indiana

“Tailored looks exemplify proportion, which is another theme I constantly return to when styling. It creates hard lines, geometry, and points of aesthetic interest for the eye. Tailored pieces are crucial to my wardrobe.” — Kinsley from Ohio

“Any fresh update on tailoring that makes it practical for the office yet fashion-forward is a win.” — Anonymous from Illinois